Built by the Portugese in 1557, this palace was presented to the Raja of Cochin, Veera Kerala Varma (1537-61), as a gesture of goodwill. The palace's alternative name, the 'Dutch Palace', resulted from substantial renovations by the Dutch after 1663.

The two-storey, quadrangular building surrounds a courtyard containing a Hindu temple. The central hall on the 1st floor was the Coronation Hall of the rajas. Their dresses, turbans and palanquins are now on display.

The most important feature, however, is the astonishing murals, depicting scenes from the Ramayana, Mahabharata and Puranic legends connected with Lord Shiva, Vishnu, Krishna, Kumara and Durga. These beautiful and extensive murals rarely seem to be mentioned, although they are one of the wonders of India.